The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has confirmed an outbreak of anthrax on a farm in Zamfara State, North West Nigeria.
This announcement was made public through a statement released by the ministry’s Director of Information and Public, Ben Bem Goong, on Tuesday as citizens are urged to exercise caution and take proactive measures to minimise—the risks associated with the disease.
Anthrax is a serious disease usually caused by Bacillus anthracis bacteria. It’s found naturally in soil around the world and commonly affects livestock and wild animals. People usually get sick with anthrax if they come in contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.
“In animals and humans, symptoms of Anthrax include: Fever, coughing, vomiting, nausea, diarrhoea, sore throat and swollen lymph nodes, headaches, itching and bleeding from major openings.
“While Anthrax is preventable through coordinated efforts such as risk assessment, surveys, and ring vaccination of susceptible animals in high-risk areas, prompt detection and response are critical to containing its spread,” the statement read in part.
The ministry also urged states that share borders with Zamfara “to take immediate steps to prevent further spread of the disease. We urge the public to remain vigilant, report any unusual illnesses in animals or humans, and adhere to all preventive guidelines issued by relevant authorities.”
